About a year ago Rogers rolled out their Home Security, Monitoring and Automation (SMA) service. This new service provides the customer with standard home security (two-way voice) as well as customizable remote home monitoring and automation.

This service uses Roger's cellular and cable networks to provide secure home security monitoring and automation accessible through an interactive touchpad, website or mobile application. The security monitoring is backed by a 24/7 central monitoring station.

The wireless hardware are rebranded products from SMC Networks which provide several cable operators with SMA service solutions. The hardware devices communicate using the ZigBee IEEE 802.15 wireless network protocol. Through my limited research, the hardware seems a bit pricey although the quality is decent and battery life is expected to be up to 3 years through high quality, long life lithium batteries.

You can obtain access to remotely control your home through the touchpad or through a secure web site. There is also a mobile app available for both iPhone and Android. Remote access allows you to control your devices (lights, appliances etc.) as well as monitor the camera's if so equipped. Unfortunately there doesn't seem to be any support for Windows Phone 7 or BlackBerry yet.

Three packages are available with monthly pricing from $34.99 to $52.99 not including required hardware. In order to get most of the fancy home automation features you are forced to pay for the higher monthly plans.

Will Rogers succeed in their new offering? I think it stands a decent chance even if it's a bit pricey. They have recently been pushing the service through online ads, TV commercials and are now doing mail-outs with their partnered insurance companies. Other competitors have tried and failed. Bell made an attempt about 5 years ago but shut it down after only 1 year of trying. Things have changed a lot in the last 5 years. More and more people are always connected through devices and apps so Rogers has timed it well. Most non-techie consumers are probably not aware of products offered by companies such as Insteon, Z-wave and Control4 so by having the Rogers name behind the service/product might convince some people to give home automation a try. Only time will tell!